(Seychelles News Agency) - It was a once-in-a-generation visit. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was in the Seychelles May 7-8, the first visit by a Secretary-General in 40 years. We were thrilled to show the world leader our island nation's blue skies and white beaches. While he was here the world's ultimate diplomat had a few nice things to say about our 115-island archipelago. Here are five of our favorites:

1. Island nature! Ban called the Valle de Mai Nature Reserve "breathtaking" and a "common asset for the whole humanity." He thanked Seychelles for preserving this "very valuable treasure."

2. The environment: Ban said he was impressed by Seychelles sense of responsibility, especially concerning environmental issues. And he thanked the island nation for quickly ratifying the Paris Agreement on climate change. We're one of only 16 nations to do it so fast!